There’s something about opening an older bottle of wine that feels a little like time travel.
We all have (or know someone who has) that one special bottle, patiently waiting. Over the years, it has softened, deepened, and transformed. And then, one day, the moment arrives—you open the bottle, pour a glass, and taste the past.
Old wines aren’t just about age. They’re about patience. About understanding that some things get better with time. The sharp edges soften, the flavours deepen, and what was once bold and brash becomes something layered and wise. Every sip is a reflection of the vineyard, the vintage, and the years spent waiting for just the right moment.
For us, our 2009 Ablington Shiraz is the ultimate love letter to old vintages.
It was our very first wine—the bottle that marked the beginning of Hart & Hunter. When we made that first vintage, we had no idea the journey it would take, how it would evolve, or how it would come to symbolise everything we love about winemaking. Now, 16 years later, it stands as a testament to our history, our dedication, and the beauty of letting time work its magic. Each time we open a bottle, it’s like revisiting a cherished memory with every sip.
The best part? No two old bottles are ever exactly the same. Some age gracefully, becoming elegant and refined, while others surprise you with unexpected notes, reminding you that wine, like life, is unpredictable. Opening an aged bottle is a moment of discovery—an experience that can’t be replicated.
So next time you find yourself with a beautifully aged bottle, take your time. Pour slowly. Let it breathe. And most of all, enjoy the journey that wine has taken to reach your glass.
Want to try some wines that have already been aged for you? Explore our collection of museum wines here.
